Rabbit Hunting in Mississippi

There are a number of public lands
that are open to rabbit hunting in Mississippi, including Wildlife
Management Areas (WMA), National Forests, National Wildlife
Refuges, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lands (see links below).
The presence and abundance of rabbits on these areas vary depending
on habitat quality and quantity. Cottontails can be found in upland
and lowland areas while swamp rabbits are typically found around
wetlands, rivers, creeks, and other lowland areas. Both species
require an abundant mix of upright grass cover, broadleaf plants,
and brushy thickets. Black Prairie, Charles Ray Nix, and Hell Creek
WMAs are managed with an emphasis on small game by the Mississippi
Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. Public lands in the
Delta region that have young hardwood restoration plantings
often hold good rabbit numbers. Trim Cane (near
Starkville) and Nanih Waiya (near Philadelphia) WMAs also offer
rabbit hunting through a special permit process (a special
permit is not required to hunt rabbits without dogs on Nanih Waiya
WMA). Permit
applications are available in August or September. A
limited number of permits are issued by a random drawing of
applications. A Wildlife Management Area User Permit (may be
purchased anywhere hunting licenses are sold) is required of anyone
using a WMA, unless exempt from purchasing a hunting and fishing
license. For other public lands, consult the administrative agency
for information on regulations and permits that may be
required.